Bishop Vann’s message regarding the testimony of former Papal Nuncio Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò
It was very difficult for me to read the eleven page testimony given by the Most Reverend Carlo Maria Viganò on August 22, 2018 and released (in English) on August 25, 2018. Noting that the former second in command in the Apostolic Nunciature, Msgr. Jean Francois Lantheaume, has stated that Archbishop Viganò told “the truth,” I would add that I see Archbishop Viganò as a man of integrity, having known him for many years.
Given the grave accusations leveled by the former apostolic nuncio, I believe that it is necessary for the Holy Father to ensure that a competent investigation be undertaken swiftly. The truth of each accusation having been established, just penalties should be imposed upon those found guilty with the goal of repairing scandal and restoring justice. As Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, noted in his August 27, 2018 statement, “The letter of Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò brings particular focus and urgency to this examination. The questions raised deserve answers that are conclusive and based on evidence. Without those answers, innocent men may be tainted by false accusation and the guilty may be left to repeat sins of the past.”
We renew our fraternal affection for the Holy Father in these difficult days. Please join with me in praying with and for Pope Francis during this difficult time as he always asks us to do. May justice be served.
In making this statement, I am joined by my auxiliary bishops, Timothy E. Freyer and Thanh Tai Nguyen.
Most Reverend Kevin W. Vann, J.C.D., D.D.
Bishop of Orange in California
